West Texas A&M University

Google Glass to Enhance Classroom Experience at WTAMU

CANYON, Texas—From sign translations to golf distance analysis, Google Glass is one of the hottest topics in technology today, and students at West Texas A&M University will get the opportunity to try out the digitally-connected eye wear in classes this spring.

The wearable computer hasn’t been introduced to the open market yet and currently can only be purchased by invitation. Dr. Emily Kinsky, assistant professor of mass communication, received an invitation Dec. 1, and the University’s Office of Information Technology purchased the Google Glass for use in WTAMU’s Department of Communication.

“It’s exciting that our students will have the opportunity to see this technology here at West Texas A&M University,” James Webb, chief information officer, said. “They are fortunate to have such innovative faculty that stays on the cutting edge to enhance their experience in the classroom.”

The Glass arrived Dec. 10, and a card in the box read, “You are a pioneer, a founder and an architect of what’s possible. You are a Glass Explorer. We have an exciting journey ahead of us, and what happens next starts with you.”

Last spring WTAMU’s New Media class discussed Google Glass. This spring the discussion will be enhanced as students see the Glass in action and try it out for themselves. The wearable computer is built into an eye wear frame with a prism display screen in the wearer’s field of vision.